We list the best hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guesthouses in Venice as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews and we only listed places with at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Venice: Arcadia Boutique Hotel
Best boutique hotel in Venice: Novecento Hotel
Best luxury hotel in Venice: Gritti Palace Hotel
“Better save up before bedding down on the Grand Canal. At the illustrious Gritti Palace, with its 82 recently restored rooms and suites, rates start around $477.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Venice, Italy.
“A bastion of Old World elegance in the peaceful Cannaregio neighborhood, Ca’Sagredo is housed in a 15th-century palace. It showcases some of the best-preserved interiors in Venice.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Venice.
“Unlike the other luxury hotels on the Grand Canal, the Centurion Palace has ditched the traditional frou-frou Venetian style and opted for thoroughly modern bling. Bathrooms are clad in real gold leaf, bedrooms are given bright palettes and ceilings in the main wing can be enormous.”
“There’s little to dislike about the Flora. Rooms may be a little small but they’ve been thoughtfully put together, with comfortable mattresses on the antique beds, original terrazzo flooring, and Ortigia amenities in the bathroom.”
“Like a courtesan’s boudoir, this 16th-century palazzo is swathed in damask wall coverings, heavy silk curtains and thick, plush carpets. A smiling host greets you at the padded, golden reception desk and whisks you up to large, unabashedly lavish rooms with enough gilt to satisfy Louis XIV.”
“Yes, Corte di Gabriela is a 19th-century palazzo, but there’s nothing old or traditional about its 11 rooms, which inventively play with the palace’s historic features, combining frescoed ceilings and terrazzo floors with contemporary design pieces.”
“The JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is the sole resident of Isola delle Rose, a lush private island in the Venice Lagoon. For travelers with deep pockets who want to experience the splendor of Venice with serene breaks from the crowds, this hotel is ideal.”
“The grand dame of the Lido island, built in 1908, the Excelsior is the single focus for the glamorous Venice Film Festival — little wonder, when it has a swish private beach, restaurant with sweeping views of the Adriatic, and decadent Moorish design in the guestrooms to match the turreted, tumbling façade.”
“Most Venetian hotels take opulence to the max, but few amp up the romance as much as Ca’ Maria Adele, a 12-room bolthole on Dorsoduro, next to the iconic Salute church.”
“This fantastic little hotel on the Grand Canal, Palazzo Barbarigo occupies a small, unassuming building reached via the alleyways of San Polo. Room décor strikes out boldly from Venetian norms, with a sultry art deco feel.”
“As befits its status in the Design Hotels fold, this is a bold modernization of a 500-year-old merchant’s house on Dorsoduro, near the Accademia. Not too modern, mind you; it’s been entirely redone in Art Deco style, with furniture from the 1930s and 1940s, and futurist art on the walls by Fortunato Depero.”
“Find more reasonable rates and a warm welcome at the Hotel Arcadia, a new boutique hotel with 17 modern rooms in a restored palazzo on Cannaregio’s main drag. Included is an outstanding breakfast buffet served beneath wood-beamed ceilings and a gorgeous Murano-glass chandelier.”
Featured in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Venice, Italy.
“Sporting a boho-chic look, the Novocento is a real charmer. Its nine individually designed rooms ooze style with Turkish kilim pillows, Fortuny draperies and 19th-century carved bedsteads.”
“Few Venetian luxury hotels dare to challenge the antique-chandeliers-and-velvet look that is the city’s safe default option. Urquiola’s stylish vision for Ca’ di Dio rips up that rulebook while keeping things warm and local. And it does so in a part of town—near the Art and Architecture Biennale venues—that until now has never had a kip of this caliber.”
Featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Hotlist.
“For the contemporary without compromising the classic, book one of the rooms at the whimsical Palazzo Venart. Reached through a hard-to-find courtyard off the Grand Canal, it’s filled with modern statues that underscore Venice’s remarkable history and fabulous art scene.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2020 Gold List.
“Combo, located in a restored ex convent in the Cannareggio area, is a hostel that brings together students and travellers. The atmosphere is young, welcoming and creative with lots of weekly events, ranging from art exhibitions to DJ sets.”
“Few hotels can match the Danieli — an icon for all the right reasons. From the glorious old-school concierge desk to the rooftop restaurant with 270-degree views from the prisons of the Doge’s Palace to the lagoon and Riva degli Schiavoni all the way to Sant’Elena and the Lido.”
“The Bauer used to be two hotels, joined by a communal lobby: the 1940s brutalist Bauer L’Hotel, and the more classical 18th-century Il Palazzo, right on the Grand Canal. 2017 saw them come together to form a single property — and with 200 rooms at its disposal, it’s a winning combination.”
“Most of the 27 rooms have views — either of the side canal or the lagoon itself. The look is traditional — heavy drapes and deep colors — and for those wanting a more home-from- home experience, the hotel also has a hot tub-equipped apartment, Ca’ Bollani, in an adjacent building.”
“The 13-building complex (of which eight are open to guests) is full of original features, from steel columns and beamed ceilings in the lobby and guestrooms to a statue of the mill’s founder by the spa — which used to serve as his office.”
“All the cachet but none of the crowds is what’s on offer at this gloriously relaxed island retreat, far out in the lagoon on semi-deserted Torcello. It’s a stay unlike any other in Venice — and because of its distance, it’s more suited to regular visitors who want to experience lagoon life.”
“A stunning conversion of an old glassworks factory on Murano, the Lagare’s 118 bright rooms, located around a central courtyard, have hardwood floors and floor-to-ceiling windows, while works of art by local glass-blowers Venini are dotted around the premises.”
“What started out as a restaurant has turned into a design-led, five-room residence on a quiet side street on the far end of Dorsoduro, near the San Basilio vaporetto stop. Owner Francesco Pugliese has opted for a modern take on traditional Venetian flounce.”
“Something completely new for Venice, Casa Burano is an ‘albergo diffuso’ — or ‘scattered hotel’, an initiative sweeping Italy which takes unoccupied houses in a village and creates a ‘hotel’ around them — turning each apartment into a room, and ditching the public areas.”
“Originally a grain warehouse, the building has been converted into industrial design-led digs, and touches like exposed brick walls, beamed ceilings and Chesterfield-style armchairs will wipe any bad memories of past dormitory stays.”
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, CN Johansens, Forbes, CNN
Recommended by:
CNN, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors, Frommers
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, CNN
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
CNN, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN
It is the city in northern Italy, whose only means of thoroughfare is by the gondola or speed-boats that ply along the waterways. No other city in the world can live up to the romance of this place.
Dorsoduro
This place is thronged by the hip and young crowd, and is filled with traditional eateries, vintage boutiques and indigenous shops. It caters to the classical taste of tourists through the Gallerie dell’ Academia, and modernists with the works at Peggy Guggenheim. The buzzing nightlife and boutique hotels are the USP of this place.
Castello
Luxury hotels are found scattered around St. Mark's Square. The area is inhabited by casual bars, shops and restaurants catering to all budgets. Every alternating year, a biennial exhibition of contemporary art is held at this place.
Giudecca
Several luxurious hotels are located here, and all the local sightseeing is a quick gondola ride away. If you are looking for a laidback vacation away from the bustling crowd, then this is the place to stay.
San Marco
It is the heart of Venice, where the iconic sights like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs rest. Restaurants catering to global cuisine are found dotted around this area. You will find streets lined with upscale shops as well as those selling local handicrafts.
Cannaregio
Some of the famous churches and monuments of Venice are located in this historic neighbourhood. The area has a certain old world charm, with cafes lining the cobbled streets. You can sip on some freshly brewed coffee and watch the worlds walk by.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Venice.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Venice, then go for Gritti Palace Hotel. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Venice, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Venice, then book Arcadia Boutique Hotel. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Venice.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Venice, you should check out Novecento Hotel. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Venice, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Venice, then you should check out Hostel Combo Venezia. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Venice.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try Hotel Hilton Molino Stucky or Hotel Danieli. Both hotels offer amazing views of Venice according to recent customer reviews.
Venice is expensive. For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $220 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $340 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Venice hotel then you can expect to pay around $680 per night.
If you're looking for the best rooftop pool in Venice try Hotel Hilton Molino Stucky or JW Marriott Resort & Spa. Both hotels have excellent customer reviews for their rooftop swimming pools.
Try Hotel Avogaria 5 Rooms or Guesthouse Ca Maria Adele if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Venice. Both hotels have excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
Try Hotel Corte Di Gabriela if you're looking for a romantic getaway in Venice, it has some excellent recent customer reviews by couples.
Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace Group or Private Tour. Your first stop is legendary St. Mark's Basilica. Wander around the mosaic-covered interior and Byzantine treasures while a local guide fills you in on how this collection came to be. Then continue to the Doge’s Palace to explore the former political heart of Venice. Price: $83.
Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands. Cruise to the islands of Murano, Torcello and Burano in the Venetian Lagoon. The most famous of the Venetian islands, they are known throughout the world for their picturesque scenery, handicrafts, and history. Price: $21.
Murano & Burano Islands Half Day Guided Tour by Private Boat. Watch centuries-old glassblowing techniques in Murano, and marvel at the detailed stitches of exquisite Burano lace. Price: $47.
More things to do in Venice
If you ask someone to picture the perfect city, chances are most will conjure up images of gondolas, labyrinthine alleyways and picturesque canals. You see, Venice is a city like no other—a labyrinth of hidden passageways and crooked corridors that feel almost like a fairytale land. This magical city has stood for centuries as one of the most enchanting places on earth, but with its popularity on the rise, things have changed quite a bit. The once quiet town has now become a tourist hotspot with over 20 million visitors streaming in every year. Fortunately, getting to know this beautiful city doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Venice or simply want to learn more about it before you go, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for useful tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your visit:
What to Know Before You Go to Venice
Venice’s popularity stems from its rich and storied history, but you can’t truly appreciate this city without knowing a little bit about its past. Let’s take a look at some important things to know before visiting Venice:
Venice’s History – At the peak of its power, Venice was the most feared naval force in the world, controlling the Mediterranean and trading routes to the far corners of the globe. While this golden age lasted from the late 9th century to the early 18th century, it’s the city’s early history that’s most fascinating. Venice started as a small settlement of refugees fleeing the Huns. They chose a marshy patch of land near the Adriatic Sea because it was the only place that barbarians couldn’t sail to. Soon, the group of settlers picked up their tools and began to build a new city, brick by brick. Technically, Venice has never been a part of Italy, but rather its own independent republic until the Napoleonic era in the 18th century. Today, it’s part of the Italian region of Veneto, but locals still speak a distinct language that’s rooted in Latin.
Venice’s Architecture – From the Venetian Gothic architecture of the Basilica of San Mark to the Renaissance style columns of the Palazzo Ducale, Venice is a veritable museum of architectural styles. Many of the city’s most famous landmarks were built in the Middle Ages, making them some of the oldest structures in Italy. Venice’s most famous architectural feature is, of course, its canals. The city is built on more than 100 islands that are connected by more than 400 canals. The canals were first dug out as a way to get goods from the city’s docks to its main thoroughfare, but they now serve as the city’s arteries.
Venice’s Art – Venice has long been a hotspot for artists, and it’s currently home to some of the most important art in the world. Some of the most famous works can be found at Venice’s most famous art museum, the Gallerie dell’Accademia. The museum hosts an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, including two of the most famous Venetian works: The “Venus of Venice” and the “Gattamelata Horse”. Venice also hosts many modern art shows every year, including the Biennale, one of the world’s most important art events.
Venetian Culture and Language
Venice is a fascinating place for its architecture, art, and history, but it’s also a melting pot of cultural influences. The city has been inhabited by different people for centuries, and each of these cultures has left its mark on Venetian culture. Venetian culture is very similar to that of other Italian cities. However, there are a few things that set it apart.
The Language – Venice is famous for its distinct language, which is still widely spoken among locals. The language is a Romance language, derived from Latin, and is closely related to other languages spoken in Italy, like Italian and French.
The Cuisine – Venetian cuisine is widely regarded as some of the best in Italy. It’s heavily influenced by the city’s position as a major port, and the ingredients used in many dishes are sourced from the nearby waters. Most of the city’s cuisine is reasonably light and fresh, owing to the fact that Venice is built on a series of islands. Venice is also known for its desserts, particularly the famous creamy, heirloom-rich “torta del Veneto.”
The Architecture and Art – Venice’s architecture and art are some of the most interesting aspects of its culture. The city has been shaped by many different civilizations over time, and these are reflected in its monuments and buildings. The city has a rich artistic tradition, most prominently in its architecture. Many Venetian buildings are adorned with intricate designs and carvings, sometimes even covering their entire outside.
How to Get Around in Venice
The best way to understand a city is by walking its streets, but this isn’t always possible in Venice. This labyrinthine city sprawls across more than 100 small islands connected by canals, and navigating it on foot can be challenging. The best way to explore Venice is by boat, which allows you to glide past its landmarks and peer down into its fascinating canals. Most of Venice’s main attractions, such as the Grand Canal, are connected by boat, and the city has an active water taxi service that can take you anywhere. Public transportation in Venice is primarily done by water, with boats being the most popular method. There are also several buses that navigate the city’s smaller streets.
Best Times to Visit Venice
Like most cities, Venice has a busy season, but you can still find ways to avoid the crowds. Here are the best times to visit Venice:
Spring (February to May) – Spring is the ideal time to visit Venice. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than there are during the summer months. Many locals also take a break from work during this time, so you’ll also have fewer tourists to compete with.
Fall (September to November) – Fall is an excellent time to visit Venice, particularly if you’re interested in its art festivals. Venice hosts several important art festivals throughout the year, but most take place in the fall. Venice’s climate is ideal during this time of year, and the city is less crowded than it is during the summer months.
Important Tips for Visiting Venice
Venice is a beautiful city, but it can also be a dangerous one. Here are some important tips for visiting Venice:
Stay Safe – Venice is a city of water, but that doesn’t mean it’s free from danger. In fact, tourists account for a large portion of the city’s accidents. Avoiding these accidents is as simple as following a few basic rules:
Stay on the Path – Venice’s streets are made of tiny, interlocking cobblestones, and these make it difficult to walk in a straight line. Stay on the paths to avoid tripping and falling into the canals.
Don’t Touch the Art – Venice is renowned for its architecture and artwork, but that doesn’t mean it’s OK to touch the structures or sculptures. Touching the art and architecture of Venice is actually illegal, and you can face a hefty fine for doing so.
Stay Away from the Water – Although Venice is built on water, you don’t want to dive right in. The water in Venice is very polluted and can cause serious illness if swallowed.
Bottom line
If there’s a city that captures the romance of travel, it’s Venice. This beautiful city is steeped in history and culture, making it a truly unique place to visit. If you’re looking to experience a little bit of the old-world charm, visit Venice.
We recommend you read our guide about where to stay in Venice. It provides an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
If you like our list of the best hotels in Venice, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Dubrovnik or the best hotels in Florence.